Photos in the raw

For those of you who have a camera that can shoot "raw" and you are not using it are totally missing out!   Capturing an image in raw mode is like getting dressed for the day.  When you take a shower, I am guessing that none of you shower with clothes on, so that is where we will make the analogy.  This is not kinky in any way, just a way to explain.

What is raw?
A raw image file can be compared to the not yet visible image in an exposed but undeveloped negative--you've taken the picture, advanced the film, but not developed the roll.  The file contains exactly what the imaging chip in the camera recorded. (The imaging chip is the film for a digital camera.) This means that you are now able to get the most quality from your image.  Raw files take up LOTS of space on your card, but require processing in a dedicated photo editing software (the software that came with the camera).  Another cool thing about raw files is that you can process them over and over and over.

What is jpeg?
A jpeg image file is like a processed and developed negative.  All the sharpening, contrast, white balance, color saturation, etc. has been completed in the camera and then compressed.   Jpeg images take up less space on your card so many photographers choose to shoot in this mode.  They may not have time to do the post-processing required by raw files, and for most jpeg images, the quality may be sufficient to get a decent printed image.


So below I have compared 5 images.  Image #1 shows the picture as it was captured in raw.  (In order to post it with this blog I saved it as a jpeg).  So this is the "naked" image.   It is an ok picture, but the exposure is not perfect.  I snapped this of my daughter while I was waiting for a client to arrive and didn't fine tune the exposure reading from my light meter before I took the picture.  I know, I know.  But since the camera was in raw mode, I can make it better. I uploaded the image to a photo editing software and processed or "dressed" the image. Now don't get the idea that the purpose of raw is to "fix" everything.  It's purpose is to "enhance", "develop", "process", "retain quality". 

Next, let's put some "clothes" on it.  The first thing I did to the image was to lighten it.  It was too dark for my taste, and looked a little muddy.  Image #2 shows the lightened image.  Then, I "accessorised" the image--#3 has increased contrast,  #4 is sharpened, and #5 is warmed up a bit.

Processing your images in the raw mode will preserve the quality before you play with it in your photo editing software.